The Duchess gave a prepared speech praising the work she and her husband, Prince William, witnessed first hand.

"It really is wonderful to be here today. First class delivery of children's palliative care is life-changing," she said.

"When families are confronted with the shattering news that their children have a life-limiting condition, their world can fall apart.

"It is at those times that professional support is imperative."

She also took the opportunity to thank Australians for their response to the royal visit.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has welcomed me and George so incredibly warmly on our first visit," she said.

"To be here together as a family has been very special and we will always remember it with fond and happy memories.

"Thank you for inviting us here and for such a generous welcome."

The new Premier of NSW, Mike Baird, was among those to greet the royal couple as they arrived at Bear Cottage.

The visit was designed to raise awareness of the children's hospice, which provides medical and end-of-life care to children suffering from life-limiting illnesses.

Bear Cottage was established in 2001 entirely through community support and donations.

Dedicated staff aim to create a unique and holistic care program for the children.

The royal couple will fly to Amberley Airforce Base in Brisbane today.

Cottage gives carers a much-needed break

Leo and Julie Murnane travel from Lithgow in NSW to Bear Cottage four times a year.

They bring their 13-year-old son Michael, who suffers from Batten Disease - a fatal disorder of the nervous system.

While Michael is cared for by Bear Cottage staff, Julie and Leo are free to take time out from their 24-hour job as his full-time carers.

"We just don't have to do anything, we can look after ourselves. It's amazing... You can ask them for anything and 99 times out of 100, they'll try and get it, or try and do it."

It is hoped the Royal visit will focus attention on Bear Cottage and help raise its profile.

Ms Martin says there was much anticipation at the cottage ahead of the visit.

"We're very excited that she (the Duchess) has taken the time out to come and visit us," she said.

"Getting the message out there and showcasing Bear Cottage is fantastic and hopefully it'll highlight that Australia may need some more children's hospices in due course."

On Thursday, the Duke and Duchess visited the Blue Mountains west of Sydney.

They met residents from the town of Winmalee, which was devastated by bushfires last October, as well as Rural Fire Service volunteers and girl guides.

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